Predation on larval and pupal Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) by the ant Solenopsis geminata (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and other predators in Guatemala

Predation by the ant, Solenopsis geminata (F.), on falling Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) larvae in the field ranged from 7 to 25% in coffee and orange orchards. The ant population estimated by two sampling methods was higher in orange orchards than in the coffee orchard. Seasonal change did not affect ant predation on pupae, but the seasonal temperature and the time of the day had a significant effect on predation on larvae by the ants. Indications were that unless the periodicity of emergence of larvae from the fruit coincides with the activity of ants, the predation on pupae by ants or other insects may be higher than on larvae.